Escola Britânica de Artes Criativas: A Creative School in Sao Paulo

Designing a Community Space for Inspiration and Creativity

The main objective of the Escola Britânica de Artes Criativas was to surprise and immerse students in an interesting environment while also leaving some spaces as a blank canvas. The designers wanted to create a school that would foster a sense of ownership and inspire students to explore their artistic talents.

The design of the school reflects the vibrant Brazilian culture, particularly through the use of color. Architectural Bureau Form carefully applied color to accentuate certain architectural features within the neutral pared-back aesthetic of Isay Weinfeld's original building design. One of the boldest interventions was the creation of the first horizontal graffiti in Sao Paulo, which appears on the underbelly of the building and is visible from the entrance, terrace, and back garden.

The Escola Britânica de Artes Criativas stands out from other schools due to its unique properties. The school is designed as a giant playground, with abstract objects scattered around at random. Each object hides a certain function behind its simple form, creating an interactive and engaging environment for students. Glass partitions in the entrance zone reveal the administrative area and activities in the lecture hall, while occasional spy windows along the corridors give a glimpse of the students' work.

One of the notable aspects of this design is the collaboration between Architectural Bureau Form and the Brazilian company MAC. Together, they designed a collection of outdoor furniture that complements the playful nature of the school. The furniture features simple geometric forms of an exaggerated scale, functioning as comfortable meeting spots for students and staff.

The Escola Britânica de Artes Criativas covers an area of 2800 m2 and was completed in 2016. It has become a hub for creativity and artistic expression in Sao Paulo, providing a space where students can explore their passions and develop their artistic skills.

This innovative design has been recognized for its excellence and creativity. In 2018, the Escola Britânica de Artes Criativas was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology.

The Escola Britânica de Artes Criativas is a testament to the power of design in creating inspiring and functional spaces. By combining elements of art, architecture, and technology, this school provides a unique environment for students to unleash their creativity and pursue their artistic passions.